A haunting Sci-Fi film tops this reviewer's list

BY BRETT DAVIS

There aren't many sci-fi movies that have gripped me and pulled me in as much as Arrival has. As soon as the film starts, it drips with atmosphere. Not only do the performances and cinematography bring you in, but so does the exceptionally written story. The story revolves around the landing of 12 spaceships in 12 random locations around the world. However, there is nothing coming out of them, and government organizations around the world are panicking as they try to communicate with the aliens and decide what the next course of action is.​ This film is hands down the best film I have seen this year. From director David Villeneuve, who has made some other great movies (Prisoners, Sicario, and Enemy) this is by far his biggest, and in my opinion, best film. The performances of Jeremy Renner (The Avengers, American Hustle) and Amy Adams (The Master) really shine through, and they have great chemistry together as they attempt to communicate with the aliens. The subject material is masterfully handled. The spectacle of the movie isn't over the top, and most of the scenes are very intimate—usually between two to four characters. Don't go to this film expecting some giant explosive sci-fi blockbuster, because you will get something far different, and far better than that. There were times where I had no idea where the film was going. The soundtrack especially kept me on the edge of my seat. Eerie droning instruments looming behind every scene added to the rich, deep atmosphere this movie had going for it. Not only that, but the cinematography is breathtaking. The budget was used extremely well for some beautiful scenic shots. I don't want to spoil anything because that feeling of not knowing that much about it just adds to

the tenseness of it, and the overall experience. I would highly recommend this movie to just about anyone, especially those who love sci-fi. If you like movies such as Alien, Interstellar, or even 2001: A Space Odyssey, you will adore this movie. I still have more movies to see, but so far this is indeed the best 2016 has had to offer so far. This is what a true big budget sci-fi film should be. Don't Breathe, and Swiss Army Man, which were released last summer, are up there with my favorites of this year, but Arrival leaves these two in the dust on its way to the finish line. If you get the chance, see this film; it'll blow you away too.